Galloo

Galloo Island isn't quite as expansive as Lake Ontario or the St. Lawrence Seaway, but it packs its own punch with natural beauty, history, and abundant wildlife. **Location and Geography** Galloo Island rests in eastern Lake Ontario, near the entrance to Sackets Harbor in Jefferson County, New York. The island falls under the jurisdiction of the Town of Hounsfield. * Size: Approximately 2,000 acres (809 hectares) * Length: 4.5 miles (7.2 kilometers) * Width: Up to 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) * Shoreline: 10 miles (16 kilometers) The island itself is a fascinating mix of landscapes. The shoreline on the east side is low-lying and marshy, while the northwest side boasts dramatic cliffs reaching up to 65 feet (20 meters) that border the forests. The highest elevation on the island is 285 feet (87 meters). **History** Galloo Island has a rich history, rumored to have been a hideout for smugglers during Prohibition. In the 1800s, the island was granted funding for a lighthouse to aid navigation on the lake. More recently, the island has served as a private retreat. **Wildlife and Recreation** Galloo Island is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The island is home to a herd of roughly 500 white-tailed deer and is a haven for birdwatchers with sightings of Canada geese, waterfowl, wild turkeys, and more. The surrounding waters of Lake Ontario are a playground for anglers with a healthy population of fish including salmon, trout, bass, and walleye. **Private Island** Galloo Island is currently a private island. While not publicly accessible, it offers a glimpse into a unique island ecosystem and a rich history within the vastness of Lake Ontario.